MFA Ukraine praises U.S. stance on Crimea

"I want to see Crimea under Ukraine flag," Ukraine's top diplomat says.

REUTERS

Ukraine has welcomed the Crimean Declaration issued by U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo emphasizing U.S. non-recognition of Russia’s illegal attempt to annex the Autonomous Republic of Crimea, according to the MFA Ukraine press service.

"The Declaration confirms the consistency of U.S. policy concerning the respect of sovereignty and territorial integrity. As in the Welles Declaration of 1940, the United States of America consistently upholds the bedrock principle of international law, ex injuria jus non oritur. Illegal acts cannot create rights for the perpetrator," the comment says.

"We applaud the U.S. resolve in urging the Russian Federation to respect international law and restore the territorial integrity of Ukraine," the Ukrainian diplomats say, adding that they are "also deeply grateful to the United States for its practical assistance in countering Russia’s aggression against Ukraine."

"Following the latest Crimea declaration we must double our efforts and make more pressure on Russia. "Baltic scenario", that lasted for half a century, is not an option. I want to see Crimea under Ukraine flag!" Foreign Minister Pavlo Klimkin wrote on Twitter.

Following the latest 🇺🇸 #Crimea declaration we must double our efforts and make more pressure on Russia. «Baltic scenario», that lasted for half a century, is not an option. I want to see Crimea under 🇺🇦 flag! https://t.co/YpHJRdKtsU